The Avenue of Flags is a Memorial Day and 4th of July tradition co-sponsored by the Gretna American Legion Leonard Conley Post 216. Members of Legion Post 216, Legion Riders, Sons, Auxiliary, VFW Post 10725, and Gretna Boy Scout and Cub Scout Troops raise the flags at 0700 and retrieve them at 1700.
This year, 223 flags, all sponsored by a family member of a loved one who perished while serving, or who has since passed, graced the perimeter of Peterson Park. Each flag carries the name of the service member, along with the war or conflict in which they served. The flags are flown in order, starting from the base of the park flag, in alphabetical order by conflict, beginning with the Civil War.
This year's guest speaker was US Navy Captain Donald E. Kennedy, Director of Operations of JFCC Global Strike, US Strategic Command. Following his address, the names of each of the fallen were read, concluding with the rendering of honors.
Harold Hansen, WW2 Veteran, with guest speaker CAPT Conald Kennedy and Vice Commander Jeff Jones
Honor Guard
Speakers
CAPT Kennedy giving his remarks.
Ken Harpennau, Any Stednitz, and Desiree Stednitz, prepared to read the Roll of Honor
CAPT Kennedy giving his remarks.
CAPT Kennedy giving his remarks.
Commander Jeff Johnson reading the newest additions to the Roll Call.
Desiree Stednitz reading the Roll of Honor
Andy Stednitz reading the Roll of Honor
Ken Harpennau reading the Roll of Honor
Honor Guard - Port Arms!
Honor Guard - Aim, Fire!
Honor Guard - Present Arms!
Commander Jeff Johnson and Chaplain Tim Gilligan presenting WW2 Veteran Harold Hansen with his 60 Year Membership Certificate and Pin.
